How do we know if our gorgeous dog has dementia?

Incredibly, Boo will reach the grand old age of 15 very soon. So, in ‘human years’ that supposedly makes him an unbelieveable 87 years old. Of course, we can’t quite believe it. However, at his age, it would be fair to ask “Does our dog have dementia?”

Boo is old! But does our dog have dementia?

When we are out and about with Boo, people often make comments about his appearance. And thankfully, they are usually all extremely positive. Well, let’s face it, our handsome hound Boo is absolutely gorgeous!

With fellow dog walkers, we sometimes have a conversation about Boo being aged almost 15 years of age. His hearing is deteriorating and, in addition, his eyesight isn’t what it used to be.

arthritis is bothering him and his stiff joints mak it difficult for him to do some of the things he used to love doing.

Others may talk about their pet pooch’s failing eyesight, deafness or ‘selective deafness’! (We’ve all witnessed that in our beloved doggies !).

Sadly, sometimes it seems like everyone you talk to has a heart-breaking story about dementia in their human family. We do too. Naturally then, the discussion turns to doggie dementia.

Honestly, we don’t think Boo has dementia and we hope he never will never develop it.

However, the question “Does our dog have dementia?” might very well be something many dog lovers are asking themselves. Especially if their beloved four-legged-friend is ‘getting on a bit‘.

Doggy Dementia is a real thing!

Sadly, old age comes to us all (if we are lucky enough to reach old age). And Boo is no exception.

Like many other elderly pet pooches, Boo is showing a signs of his old age. His eyes are a little cloudy; he doesn’t hear as well as he used to do and, most concerning of all, his joints are sore.

In addition, he appears to be barking more often. Arguably, it could be because, as he ages, he has less patience! Let’s face it, don’t we all?

So much so, that he is having regular injections of Librela thanks to our fab vet Luc.

And, to be honest, if it weren’t for our pet insurance, we would find it difficult to pay for those injections (especially during this current, desperately difficult financial time across the UK).

How do you know if your dog is becoming senile or forgetful?

According to the PDSA charity (People’s Dispensary for Sick Animals), there are a number of symptoms you can look out for if you are concerned about your dog’s mental health. They include symptoms of dementia such as:

• Confusion
• Peeing or pooing in the house
• Low energy or depression
• Not sleeping at night
• Forgetting commands
• Pacing
• Staring into space
• Barking more
• Eating less or much more
• New fears or phobias
• Aggression/changes in behaviour

Find more help in identifying possible symptoms of doggie dementia, go to the PDSA here.

In addition, Vets4Pets, offers advice if you suspect your dog might have dementia. See the charity’s ‘Dementia Symptom Checker’ tool. here.

The PDSA adds: “If a pet is diagnosed with cognitive dysfunction syndrome, then your vet may prescribe medication, or recommend ways of managing the condition, which can help pets have an improved quality of life for some time after the original onset of illness.”